Union Pacific’s famed Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest operating steam locomotive, is currently on its journey to the East Coast for the first time in collaboration with Norfolk Southern, as part of a historic coast-to-coast tour as both railroads celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.
The tour includes a Fourth of July celebration in Philadelphia, major display events in eight cities, and more than 50 whistle-stops in 10 states, including stops for the first time in Indiana, Ohio, New York, and Pennsylvania.
This is the first time Big Boy has steamed across the Mississippi River and into the Ohio Valley since it was built in Schenectady, New York, and delivered to Union Pacific Railroad in 1941. This eastern portion of the locomotive’s tour operates across the Norfolk Southern network, marking a historic collaboration between the two railroads.
Today, Friday June 5th, Big Boy will be making its way through Northwest Indiana. It is expected to pass through Knox reportedly between 11am and 1pm Central Time, with a 30-minute stop in Argos planned to arrive around 2:30pm Eastern Time.
On its return journey to the West Coast, Big Boy has a planned 30-minute stop in Knox. That is anticipated to take place Thursday, July 16th around 12:30pm Central Time. The train will be stopping near 10 South Heaton Street.
Those wishing to view the locomotive today, or on its return stop July 16th are reminded of important railroad safety tips:
- Stay back at least 25 feet from all railroad tracks, including drones.
- Railroad tracks, trestles, yards, and right of way are private property, do not trespass.
- Never assume a track is abandoned or inactive, always expect a train.
- Be a safe and considerate driver, do not pace the train.
- Be aware of your environment around you; some working rail environments have uneven walking surfaces that may create difficult accessibility.
Union Pacific’s Big Boy Steam engine can be tracked on their website here
